Ärihoone

Ärihoone is a building designed primarily to host office and other business activities. Typically a multi-storey structure, it provides workspace for tenants such as companies, agencies and professional services. In many cities the ground floor may accommodate retail or service facilities that serve both tenants and visitors. The term is commonly used in Estonian to describe commercial office buildings.

Key characteristics include flexible or adaptable floor plans, a shared vertical circulation core with elevators and stairwells, and a public or semi-public lobby. Office floors are laid out to maximize usable area, with spaces for open-plan work, meeting rooms, and support functions. Buildings also house mechanical, electrical and data infrastructure, security systems, and common amenities such as cafeterias or break rooms. Parking and access to public transport are often important considerations in location decisions.

Design and planning emphasize daylight, thermal comfort, acoustics, accessibility, and energy efficiency. Ärihooned are usually built to comply with local building codes and safety regulations, including fire protection and evacuation plans. Modern examples increasingly pursue sustainability certifications and ongoing upgrades to reduce energy use and improve indoor air quality.

Operation and ownership vary in practice. Many ärihooned are owned by developers or investment companies and leased to tenants, with management handled by property or facilities management firms. Leasing terms, tenant improvements, and service agreements shape daily use and the building’s long-term performance.